Below is every ingredient in Clarins Extra Firming Day Silky Cream 50 Ml explained, its standout actives, and the side effects reported in research for those actives — analysed for Indian skin.
Flags derived from the ingredient list using dermatology reference data (fungal-acne substrate, comedogenicity, EU allergens). General guidance, not a diagnosis.
Answers are derived from the printed ingredient list and dermatology reference data — general guidance, not a diagnosis or a therapeutic claim.
Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3 used in skincare to support the skin barrier, regulate sebum, and improve uneven tone and fine lines. It is a well-tolerated multifunctional active found in many serums and moisturizers.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract is derived from oat kernels and contains beta-glucans, avenanthramides, and polysaccharides that soothe, hydrate, and reduce irritation in the skin. It is widely used in products aimed at calming sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin.
Tocopheryl acetate is a stable, esterified form of vitamin E used in skincare as an antioxidant and conditioning agent. It is converted to active tocopherol in the skin, helping protect against oxidative stress and supporting the skin barrier.
Kalanchoe Pinnata Leaf Extract is derived from the leaves of the Kalanchoe pinnata plant and is used in skincare for its purported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties attributed to its flavonoid and phenolic content. It is typically included as a soothing or conditioning botanical agent in topical formulations.
Mitracarpus scaber extract is a plant-derived ingredient valued for its harpagoside and related compounds, which inhibit tyrosinase activity to reduce melanin production. It is used in cosmetic formulations targeting hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Malpighia Emarginata (Acerola) Seed Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in vitamin C and polyphenols, used in skincare for its antioxidant properties to help protect skin from oxidative stress. It is often included as a botanical source of vitamin C and other beneficial compounds.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild transient flushing or warmth | Uncommon | More likely at higher concentrations; usually brief and self-resolving. |
| Tingling or stinging on application | Uncommon | Typically temporary, especially on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Redness or irritation | Rare | Often associated with high concentrations or combination with other actives. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Isolated case reports; presents as itching, rash, or swelling. |
| Mild transient stinging or irritation | Uncommon | More likely at high concentrations or on compromised/broken skin. |
| Tacky or sticky skin feel | Common | A cosmetic sensation rather than an adverse reaction, more noticeable at higher concentrations. |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction | Rare | True allergy to glycerin is uncommon; patch-test positivity is infrequent. |
| Skin dehydration in very low humidity | Rare | In very dry environments humectants may draw water from deeper skin layers if not paired with an occlusive. |
| Mild contact irritation | Rare | Occasional redness or stinging, usually in sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Comedogenicity / clogged pores | Rare | Generally low comedogenic potential, but acne-prone individuals may occasionally react. |
| Skin irritation or mild stinging | Rare | Generally well tolerated; occasional reports in sensitive skin. |
| Comedogenicity (pore clogging) | Uncommon | May contribute to breakouts in acne-prone individuals depending on concentration and formulation. |
| Skin dryness or tightness | Rare | Possible with high concentrations in leave-on products. |
| Redness or erythema | Uncommon | Typically mild and resolves after discontinuation. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| lifts Key active Niacinamide (vitamin B3) | Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3 used in skincare to support the skin barrier, regulate sebum, and improve uneven tone and fine lines. It is a well-tolerated multifunctional active found in many serums and moisturizers. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to hydrate the stratum corneum and support barrier function. It is considered safe and well-tolerated across most skin types and concentrations. |
| Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a lightweight emollient derived from coconut or palm oil and glycerin, used to soften skin, improve spreadability, and act as a solvent for oil-soluble ingredients. It is well-tolerated and serves primarily as a base ingredient rather than an active. |
| Cetearyl Isononanoate Emollient/skin-conditioning agent | Cetearyl Isononanoate is an ester of cetearyl alcohol and isononanoic acid used as an emollient and emulsion stabilizer that imparts a smooth, non-greasy skin feel and improves spreadability in creams and lotions. It functions as a formulation/texture ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Pentylene Glycol Humectant / solvent / preservative-booster | Pentylene glycol is a glycol used in cosmetics as a humectant and solvent that also enhances the antimicrobial efficacy of formulations, helping reduce reliance on traditional preservatives. It improves skin hydration and aids the delivery and stability of other ingredients. |
| Phenoxyethanol Preservative | Phenoxyethanol is a widely used broad-spectrum preservative that protects cosmetic and skincare formulations from bacterial and fungal contamination. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and serves as a formulation/base ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
| Cetearyl Alcohol Emollient/emulsifier | Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol blend (cetyl and stearyl alcohol) used in skincare as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and thickening agent. It helps soften skin and keep oil and water phases blended in creams and lotions. |
| Cellulose Thickener / absorbent / texturizer | Cellulose is a plant-derived polysaccharide used in skincare as a thickening, stabilizing, and absorbent agent, and in exfoliant or film-forming roles. It is generally inert and well tolerated as a formulation base ingredient. |
| Mica Colorant/opacifying agent | Mica is a naturally occurring silicate mineral used in cosmetics as a colorant and light-reflecting pigment to add shimmer, opacity, and a smooth feel to formulations. It is considered inert and is widely used in makeup, sunscreens, and skincare products. |
| Sodium Polyacrylate Thickener / absorbent | Sodium polyacrylate is a superabsorbent acrylic-acid polymer used in skincare as a thickening, stabilizing, and water-binding agent that can hold large amounts of liquid to create gel-like textures. It functions as a formulation and texture-enhancing ingredient rather than a biologically active treatment. |
| Parfum/Fragrance Fragrance/masking agent | Parfum (fragrance) is a blend of aromatic compounds added to cosmetic products to impart a pleasant scent or mask the base odor of other ingredients. It provides no skincare benefit and is one of the most common causes of cosmetic-related skin reactions. |
| Butylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Butylene glycol is a small diol commonly used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-reducing agent that helps dissolve other ingredients and improve skin feel. It is widely regarded as safe and non-sensitizing for the majority of users at cosmetic concentrations. |
| Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer Rheology modifier / emulsion stabilizer | Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic crosslinked acrylic polymer used to thicken, gel, and stabilize emulsions in skincare and cosmetic formulations. It helps suspend ingredients and provides a smooth, consistent texture without acting as a treatment active. |
| Anigozanthos Flavidus Extract Skin-conditioning / botanical extract | Anigozanthos Flavidus Extract is derived from the Australian kangaroo paw plant and is used in cosmetic formulations as a skin-conditioning and moisturizing agent, often promoted for its content of sugars and amino acids intended to support skin hydration and softness. It is typically included as a botanical additive rather than a clinically validated treatment active. |
| Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract Key active Soothing/anti-inflammatory emollient | Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract is derived from oat kernels and contains beta-glucans, avenanthramides, and polysaccharides that soothe, hydrate, and reduce irritation in the skin. It is widely used in products aimed at calming sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative booster / skin-conditioning agent | Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional glyceryl ether used in cosmetics primarily as a preservative-enhancing agent and emollient, often paired with phenoxyethanol to broaden antimicrobial efficacy. It also acts as a deodorizing agent and humectant in skincare formulations. |
| Ppg-5-Ceteth-20 Surfactant/emulsifier | PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is a polyethylene/polypropylene glycol ether of cetyl alcohol used as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer to stabilize formulations and help disperse oils and fragrances in water-based products. It functions as a base/formulation ingredient rather than an active treatment compound. |
| Tocopheryl Acetate Key active Antioxidant | Tocopheryl acetate is a stable, esterified form of vitamin E used in skincare as an antioxidant and conditioning agent. It is converted to active tocopherol in the skin, helping protect against oxidative stress and supporting the skin barrier. |
| Cetearyl Glucoside Emulsifier | Cetearyl Glucoside is a plant-derived (glucose and fatty alcohol) nonionic emulsifier used to blend oil and water phases and stabilize creams and lotions. It is valued for being mild and well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations. |
| Tromethamine pH adjuster / buffering agent | Tromethamine (trometamol, TRIS) is an organic amine base used in cosmetic and topical formulations to neutralize acidic components and stabilize pH. It functions primarily as a buffering and neutralizing agent rather than as a therapeutic active. |
| Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant / hydrator | Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin to improve hydration and surface plumpness. Its lower molecular weight allows better penetration than native hyaluronic acid. |
| Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer Film-former / humectant | Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer is a synthetic polymer used in skincare and cosmetic formulations primarily as a film-forming agent and humectant. It helps form a flexible, breathable film on the skin that improves moisture retention, sensory feel, and the stability or wear of the product. |
| Betaine Humectant / osmolyte | Betaine is a naturally derived amino acid derivative (trimethylglycine) used in skincare as a humectant and osmoprotectant that attracts and retains moisture while helping stabilize skin barrier function. It also improves the texture and mildness of formulations. |
| Sorbitol Humectant | Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used in skincare as a humectant and texture enhancer, drawing moisture into the skin and improving product spreadability. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Sodium Benzoate Preservative | Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid used as a preservative in cosmetic and skincare formulations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, particularly in acidic products. It is most effective at a pH below 5. |
| Kalanchoe Pinnata Leaf Extract Key active Botanical extract (antioxidant/soothing) | Kalanchoe Pinnata Leaf Extract is derived from the leaves of the Kalanchoe pinnata plant and is used in skincare for its purported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties attributed to its flavonoid and phenolic content. It is typically included as a soothing or conditioning botanical agent in topical formulations. |
| Balanites Roxburghii Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Balanites Roxburghii Seed Oil is a plant-derived lipid used as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, providing fatty acids that help soften skin and support the surface barrier. It functions primarily as a base oil rather than a targeted treatment active. |
| Mitracarpus Scaber Extract Key active Skin-brightening agent | Mitracarpus scaber extract is a plant-derived ingredient valued for its harpagoside and related compounds, which inhibit tyrosinase activity to reduce melanin production. It is used in cosmetic formulations targeting hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. |
| Malpighia Emarginata (Acerola) Seed Extract Key active Antioxidant | Malpighia Emarginata (Acerola) Seed Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in vitamin C and polyphenols, used in skincare for its antioxidant properties to help protect skin from oxidative stress. It is often included as a botanical source of vitamin C and other beneficial compounds. |
| Citric Acid pH adjuster / AHA exfoliant | Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from citrus fruits, used primarily to adjust and buffer formulation pH and as a chelating agent, and at higher concentrations as a mild chemical exfoliant. It can promote surface cell turnover and is sometimes included in antioxidant or brightening products. |
| Furcellaria Lumbricalis Extract Marine algae extract / film-forming hydrator | Furcellaria Lumbricalis Extract is derived from a red seaweed and is used in skincare primarily as a hydrating, film-forming and texturizing agent due to its polysaccharide (carrageenan-like) content. It provides skin conditioning, moisture retention and a smoothing surface feel. |
| Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Key active Antioxidant | Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (green tea extract) is derived from the leaves of the tea plant and is rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins like EGCG. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. |
| Potassium Sorbate Preservative | Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, used as a mild preservative to inhibit mold, yeast, and some bacterial growth in cosmetic formulations. It is most effective at acidic pH and is often combined with other preservatives for broad-spectrum protection. |
| Lapsana Communis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract Botanical extract / skin conditioning | Lapsana Communis (nipplewort) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare primarily as a skin-conditioning and soothing agent, traditionally associated with mild emollient and skin-calming properties. It functions mainly as a supportive botanical rather than a clinically proven treatment active. |
| Maris Sal/Sea Salt/Sel Marin [V3187A] Mineral exfoliant/conditioning agent | Maris Sal (sea salt) is a naturally derived mineral mixture used in skincare primarily as a physical exfoliant, viscosity controller, and bulking or mineralizing agent. It also contributes trace minerals and can support skin barrier and hydration in balneotherapy contexts. |
Key active = does the main work. Ingredient explanations are drawn from public databases & literature.
Peer-reviewed papers on the active ingredients in this product, via PubMed.